The measure carried by Sen. Ben Hueso, D-San Diego, would establish a process for the Department of Motor Vehicles to work with federal authorities to offer what’s called an “enhanced driver’s license.”

Applicants would have to be eligible for a U.S. passport, clear tighter background checks and pay more. The license would be equipped with special technology that can be read remotely, avoiding lengthy stops at checkpoints.

Widespread use of the new license would reduce overall border wait times and encourage more trade and travel between the two countries, supporters say.

California would become the first southwestern border state with such a program if legislation is signed into law and approved by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The proposal has supporters on both sides of the border, who say the average wait time is now 70 minutes.

But the American Civil Liberties Union is wary of the potential invasions of privacy, the threat of stealing personal information and counterfeiting documents.

The 11-0 vote by the Transportation and Housing Committee sends the bill to the Appropriations Committee. Gov. Jerry Brown has not taken a position.